[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/6″][vc_facebook type=”button_count”][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/6″][vc_tweetmeme share_via=”YinzBuy”][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/6″ css=”.vc_custom_1654058987848{margin-top: -5px !important;}”][vc_pinterest][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]I’ve always known I had family members halfway around the world, but modern technology has made it so much easier to connect. We’ve even decided to start exchanging holiday gifts! This led me to figuring out how to send them, mainly wondering: will customs unwrap presents?
Customs will generally not unwrap presents, as long as you are truthful about the contents of the package. There are different regulations for shipping packages, versus actually traveling with them, so it’s important to know how to stay compliant.
While this year I plan to mail them some goodies, next year I’m contemplating heading out in person. So, I figured it was good to know what to expect both ways, so I could prepare in advance![/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]
How to Avoid Customs Unwrapping Presents When Mailing
Mailing your packages is actually easier than traveling with them when it comes to avoiding customs destroying your wrapping job!
Here is what you need to know to make it unlikely that customs will unwrap a present when mailing:
- Do not wrap the outer packaging (shipping box)
- Check the destination address for accuracy, and include a return address
- Complete all customs forms in entirety and accurately
- Avoid shipping anything that would be damaged by an x-ray
- Never ship prohibited items
Don’t wrap the outer package
Wrapping the exterior packaging increases the likelihood that it will tear off during transit. If that happens, the paperwork and address information are lost with the wrapper.
In the worst case scenario, the package is lost or undeliverable. Best case, they may be able to locate shipping information or return to sender, but customs is likely to check the contents of the package.[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]
Complete Your Customs Forms
The single most important factor to shipping a wrapped present internationally is to complete your customs forms. Declare the contents and the value truthfully to the best of your knowledge.
If you lie about what is in the package, it’s very likely that your gift will be unwrapped for inspection. Customs will put everything through an x-ray scanner. For instance, if you’ve declared a vase and they see a suitcase shape, it will be pulled and opened.
Make sure to check your specific carrier’s requirements for their customs forms. Here in the United States, I can complete the customs form online right on the USPS website and print it along with my shipping label.[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]
Avoid Shipping Prohibited Items
Aside from inaccurate or incomplete customs forms, the other most likely reason a wrapped present would be opened is for prohibited items. These are items banned for shipment either by the sending or receiving nation.
Trying to mail something that is prohibited will get caught in customs, and your package will be opened and detained. Every country has their own regulations, so make sure to check the prohibited items list for the specific country you are mailing from and to.
Almost universally, you will not be able to ship:
- Fruits or vegetables
- Plants, flowers, or seeds
- Aerosols
- Perfumes or nail polish
- Anything explosive or hazardous
Of course, I also try to avoid most liquids and fragile items as well, as they have a much higher chance of being damaged or destroyed during shipping. As mentioned before, everything will pass through an x-ray as part of the process, so stay away from film as well.
Also keep in mind that you should not send wrapped gifts that appear to be a prohibited item. For example, if you’re sending a toy gun that looks like the real thing, it’s very likely to be opened and inspected.
Customs may return gifts inside a fabric gift bag
If you’re still concerned, my other favorite tip is to use a gift bag instead of formally wrapping the gift. I use fabric drawstring bags often in place of wrapping. I find they hold up better being knocked around during shipping anyway. However if they do somehow get opened for inspection, a customs officer is more likely to place the item back in the bag. While it’s still not a guarantee, I know for sure they won’t re-wrap your gift in wrapping paper![/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]
Traveling With Gifts and What You Need to Know to Avoid Customs Unwrapping
Actually traveling with a wrapped gift in your carry on or checked luggage can be tricky. There are two points of contact in this case – both TSA and customs. That means double the chances for your package to be inspected!
Ironically, TSA is far more likely to unwrap a present than customs is. If they see anything deemed suspicious, they will pull and inspect the contents, and I promise they won’t re-wrap it.
However, if you are traveling with your gifts and want to avoid customs unwrapping them, here is what you should know:
- The safest plan to ensure your gifts won’t be unwrapped is to bring them unwrapped, and then wrap when you arrive at your destination
- Should that not be an option, place the wrapped present in your checked luggage. Checked luggage is far more forgiving in terms of contents and scrutiny
- If you must bring a wrapped present in a carry on, ensure that it meets all carry-on regulations
Place your present in a gift bag for TSA inspection
You could also bring a gift in a gift bag as your personal item, separate from your carry on. These are easily looked through by agents if needed, and easy to “fix” before presenting to the recipient.
Also remember that, just like mailing an item, the most important thing is to not pack something prohibited. Review the regulations for both carry ons and checked luggage before attempting to bring a wrapped gift in your luggage.
Even if you’re traveling by train, boat, or another form of border crossing, it’s always best to be prepared, declare your items on a customs form when asked, and avoid items that aren’t allowed.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]
That’s A Wrap!
Sending gifts around the world may seem like a daunting prospect. However, with a little planning, you’ll be able to reduce the chances that customs will unwrap your presents. I hope you’ve found this guide helpful for what you need to know. Happy gifting!
Your recipients will find it hilarious when you send a present in one of these prank gift boxes
Sending cash? Try out a money maze puzzle box. It’s like a gift, game, and box all in one!
For an extra special gift, fill up a DIY photo surprise explosion gift box. Don’t worry, there aren’t any real explosives in there!
If mailing a wrapped present seems like too much trouble, how about sending a gift card instead? Did you know you can even send an Amazon gift card anonymously?
You can also bring a small gift to pair with a gift card for a personalized touch that should be much easier to wrap and travel with!
Maybe you want to give the gift of music, but are concert tickets a good gift? We discuss 5 important things to know first!
Learn how to put tissue paper in a wine gift bag so you can make your present look great after traveling!
Try wrapping your gift in a mystery! This is easier to do than you think thanks to our helpful guide on how to create a riddle for a surprise gift![/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]As noted on our Affiliate Disclaimer page, links to products inside this blog could lead to sales commissions which allow this site to continue operations.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]
